Day 1 of the All England Open 2026 delivered pure drama as India’s Lakshya Sen orchestrated a seismic upset, defeating world-class Chinese shuttler Shi Yuqi 23-21, 19-21, 21-17. The 24-year-old’s 78-minute marathon win over the titleholder has ignited hopes for an Indian resurgence at the Birmingham showpiece.
Blasting off in Game 1, Sen established 17-10 control through relentless pressure. Shi, known for his deceptive play, equalized at 18-17, but Sen’s killer instinct clinched it.
Game 2 belonged to Shi, who exploited Sen’s fatigue, leading 19-13 en route to a 21-19 edge. Sen’s resilience kept it close.
The decider highlighted Sen’s evolution: impeccable footwork, net mastery, and booming smashes built a 16-11 lead. Four match points followed; Shi erased one, but Sen’s composure triumphed.
Mixed doubles success came via Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto’s 21-17, 21-19 verdict over Malaysians Peng Soon Chan and Cheng Su Yin. Malvika Bansod struggled without PV Sindhu, who missed out due to Middle East crisis stranding her in Dubai, losing 21-11, 21-6 to Chen Yufei.
This landmark result underscores Sen’s readiness for elite competition, promising more fireworks in the Super 1000 draw.